How to Get Gum Out of Hair: Effective and Safe Methods

Lav Tripathi
3 min readSep 19, 2023

Discovering gum stuck in your hair can be a sticky situation, but fear not!

There are several safe and effective methods to remove gum from hair without causing damage or resorting to drastic measures.

In this article, we’ll explore step-by-step instructions on how to get gum out of hair using various household items.

These methods are easy to follow and will help you save your hair without the need for a drastic haircut.

Method 1: The Ice Method

Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need ice cubes or a freezer pack and a plastic bag.

Wrap Ice Around Gum: Place the ice cubes in a plastic bag and then wrap the bag around the gum in your hair. Hold it there for 15–20 minutes. The cold temperature will harden the gum, making it easier to remove.

Carefully Scrape: After freezing, use a blunt, flat object like a butter knife or the edge of a credit card to gently scrape the hardened gum off your hair. Be very cautious not to pull or tug your hair.

Comb Out Residue: Finally, use a fine-toothed comb to comb out any remaining gum residue. Start at the tips of your hair and work your way up.

Method 2: Peanut Butter Method

Get Some Peanut Butter: Apply a generous amount of creamy peanut butter to the gum-infested area. Ensure the peanut butter fully covers the gum.

Massage and Wait: Gently massage the peanut butter into the gum and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. The oils in the peanut butter will help break down the gum’s stickiness.

Comb It Out: Using a fine-toothed comb, start combing out the gum along with the peanut butter. Be patient and work slowly to avoid pulling your hair.

Wash and Condition: Once all the gum is removed, wash your hair thoroughly with warm water and a mild shampoo. Apply conditioner to keep your hair soft and smooth.

Method 3: Cooking Oil Method

Select Your Oil: You can use cooking oils like vegetable oil, olive oil, or coconut oil. Apply a generous amount to the gum.

Massage and Wait: Massage the oil into the gum and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. The oil will break down the gum’s adhesive properties.

Comb It Out: Use a fine-toothed comb to gently comb out the gum, working from the tips of your hair towards the scalp.

Shampoo and Condition: Wash your hair with a mild shampoo to remove the oil, and then condition your hair to restore its moisture.

Method 4: Mayonnaise Method

Apply Mayonnaise: Spread a thick layer of mayonnaise over the gum and the surrounding hair.

Wrap and Wait: Cover the mayonnaise-covered area with plastic wrap and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. The oils in mayonnaise will loosen the gum.

Comb It Out: Carefully use a fine-toothed comb to remove the gum from your hair.

Rinse and Condition: Rinse out the mayonnaise with warm water, shampoo, and condition your hair.

Conclusion

Getting gum in your hair doesn’t have to lead to a drastic haircut.

With the methods outlined in this article, you can effectively and safely remove gum from your hair using household items like ice, peanut butter, cooking oil, or mayonnaise.

Remember to be patient and gentle when working on your hair to avoid damage.

Following these steps will help you save your hair and keep it looking its best.

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Lav Tripathi

Writer| blogger| travel enthusiast. Talks about #Astronomy #Cosmology #Stock trading #Health Creator of www.lavtripathi.com